Global refugee numbers decline by 3% in 2025, UN report indicates
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
Global refugee numbers decreased by three percent to 41.6 million in 2025, marking the first decline in a decade, according to the Global Trends Report released by the UN Refugee Agency UNCHR. UN Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric announced this development, noting that while the numbers remain high, 5.4 million people fled violence and persecution in 2025. The report also highlights a significant increase in returns, with 14.7 million displaced individuals returning to their home areas or countries, particularly in Afghanistan, Sudan, and Syria. Refugee returns in 2025 were the second highest in 60 years, though many occurred under pressure and to precarious conditions. UN High Commissioner for Refugees Barham Salih called for international support for a new initiative aimed at reducing the number of refugees in long-term displacement reliant on humanitarian aid by more than half over the next decade. The report also indicated a sharp drop in resettlement, with arrivals falling by over half to 81,800 in 2025. Over 70 percent of refugees originated from Afghanistan, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine, and Venezuela, with Colombia, Germany, and T眉rkiye being the largest host countries. Salih emphasized that asylum and protection are lifesaving and essential for rebuilding lives.
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England midfielder Jude Bellingham believes the national team is more connected heading into this summer's World Cup compared to their Euro 2024 campaign. Bellingham, who played a key role in England reaching the Euro 2024 final, reflected on the squad's experience, stating that lessons were learned from the tournament. He noted that during the Euros, some aspects off the pitch were handled poorly, and the group did not feel as connected as it could have, partly due to expectations. Despite reaching the final, England's performances often faced scrutiny, and Bellingham mentioned that even when winning, there wasn't a feeling of happiness. The 22-year-old emphasized the need for the squad to balance a winning mentality with enjoying success. Looking ahead to the World Cup, Bellingham highlighted the importance of every squad member feeling valued and included, stressing that everyone must be ready and feel like a significant part of the team. England will begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia in Arlington, Texas, next Wednesday.
President Bola Tinubu announced the renaming of the Institute of Petroleum Studies, Kaduna, to the General Shehu Musa Yar'Adua University of Geological Sciences and Engineering Technology. This decision, made on Friday, honors the late military officer's contributions to Nigeria's transition to civilian rule and his vision of national partnership. The renaming was part of President Tinubu's Democracy Day address, recognizing architects of Nigeria's democratic journey. The President also announced national honors for over 30 democracy heroes and soldier-democrats of the June 12 struggle, including posthumous recognitions for Dr. Arthur Nwankwo and Ben Charles-Obi, with the complete list to be released soon.
Must ReadPresident Bola Tinubu stated that the abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo and Borno states has dampened this year鈥檚 Democracy Day celebrations. He reaffirmed his administration's commitment to ensuring their safe return and enhancing Nigeria's security. During his national address for Nigeria's 27th Democracy Day, his fourth since taking office in 2023, President Tinubu emphasized that "Democracy without security is a mirage." He highlighted that his administration has declared a security emergency and approved the recruitment of over 50,000 new police officers and thousands of military personnel. The President also commended the armed forces, police, intelligence services, traditional rulers, faith leaders, and community heads for their contributions to peace and reconciliation efforts.